Clinical Biochemistry

C-peptide

Lab Code : CPEP

Test Background Pro-insulin is cleaved to form connecting peptide (C-peptide) and insulin prior to secretion into the portal circulation. They are secreted in equi-molar concentrations, however C-peptide is metabolised more slowly than insulin. C-peptide can be helpful in the differential diagnosis of type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus. The insulin:C-peptide ratio can be used to diagnose use of exogenous insulin.